Scratch Map® Poster Inspiration: The Antarctic

We don’t know how many of you have managed to mark off the Antarctic off your Scratch Map® but, if you have, then we’re very impressed. And kind of jealous. For those of you who haven’t quite made it to the South Pole, then this handy guide is for you. Just make sure you pack your thermals – we heard it can get pretty nippy out there.

The best place to make the most of Antarctica’s clear, crisp summer days (between December and march, with an average temperature of just above 0C) is at Paradise Bay on the West Antarctic Peninsula. Still waters, majestic icebergs and azure-blue skies combine to provide plenty of stunning photo opportunities – and there’s plenty of penguins splashing about too.

For more stunning views, climb up Observation Hill, a 30-minute walk from McMurdo Station. Gaze over Mount Erebus, one of the highest volcanoes in Antarctica, the Ross Ice Shelf, and the Memorial Cross erected in honour of Captain R.F Scott and his polar party.

Make your mum go all giddy by sending her a postcard from the Port Lockroy, the only post office in the Antarctic. A former British station, it’s now a museum dedicated to early Antarctic exploration – and a fascinating one at that.

Stop off at the volcanic region of Deception Island, located in the South Shetlands of Antarctica. Take a dip in its thermal springs, while looking out towards an incredible landscape made up of ash-layered glaciers, volcanic slopes and long stretches of beaches.

If you think running through Clapham Common on a winter’s day is a bit of a challenge, then you need to up your game by taking part in the Antarctic Half-Marathon or Marathon on King George’s Island. With underfoot conditions of snow and ice, and an average windchill temperature of -20C, both races are a must-do for those with an appetite for adventure.

Got more tips to share? Drop us a comment below, send us a tweet at @LuckiesofLondon or show us your holiday snaps on Instagram using the hashtag #ScratchMapInspiration.